What is National Mascot Day?
National Mascot Day honors these legendary figures on June 17th each year, recognizing the hard work they bring to teams, franchises, and other areas.
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Mascots have been around for more than 130 years. We derive the word mascot from the French word La Mascotte. A mascotte is regarded as a woman or girl with mystic powers and the ability to bring good fortune. The character in the French opera by the same name is a farm girl. In 1880, the opera opened in Paris, followed by additional productions around Europe.
A football match between Middlesborough Association and a newly formed team called La Mascotte was announced in a London new paper, The Era, November 11, 1882 sports article. Mr. W.E. Gregory, a One player, dressed up in costume. The player's clothing isn't detailed, but it does mention that he obtained a nickname from the female members of the crowd. Gregory is also praised for his work on the track. Was he the first sports mascot?
Well, sports are full of good fortune charms, jinxes, and ritual. In 1883, the first mention of sports mascot appears in baseball in the United States. According to The Dickson Baseball Dictionary, a boy on the team named "Chic" had a reputation for bringing good fortune to the players.
